RAC membership fees depend on the level of cover you choose

The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) charges different amounts based on which breakdown cover package you select. Basic roadside information costs less than comprehensive cover that includes home start, relay, and onward travel. The exact price varies depending on whether you pay monthly or annually, and whether you bundle it with other services like home or pet insurance.

RAC publishes its current rates on its website, but the most direct way to see what you would pay is to enter your vehicle details and postcode into their quote tool. Prices change seasonally and by region, so a quote gives you the actual figure rather than a general range.

Key Takeaways

  • RAC membership is not free; you pay a monthly or annual fee that varies by the level of breakdown cover you choose.
  • Basic roadside information costs less than packages that include home start, relay services, or onward travel options.
  • Paying annually is usually cheaper than paying month-to-month, though you pay the full amount upfront.
  • Your exact price depends on your vehicle type, age, where you live, and your claims history.
  • RAC often offers discounts for bundling with home or pet insurance, or for paying by direct debit.

The main membership tiers and what they cover

RAC offers several levels of breakdown cover. At the entry level, roadside information means a mechanic comes to you on the roadside and attempts to fix the problem there. If the vehicle cannot be repaired, they tow it to a garage of your choice within a set distance (usually 10 miles).

Mid-tier packages add home start, which means if your car breaks down at home, RAC will attempt to repair it there before towing. Relay services let you continue your journey in a courtesy car while yours is being fixed. Onward travel covers the cost of a taxi, train, or hotel if you break down far from home and cannot continue when ready.

Premium packages bundle most or all of these together. The more services included, the higher the annual or monthly cost. RAC also sells breakdown cover for vans, motorcycles, and caravans, each with its own pricing structure.

How payment frequency affects your total cost

RAC allows you to pay monthly by direct debit or in one lump sum annually. Monthly payments are spread over 12 months, but the total you pay over the year is usually higher than the annual rate. For example, if annual cover costs £100, monthly payments might total £108 to £120 depending on the package.

Paying annually upfront saves money but requires you to have the full amount available at once. If you cancel mid-year, RAC typically refunds the unused portion on a pro-rata basis, though the exact terms depend on your policy document.

Factors that change your individual quote

RAC calculates your price based on several factors. Your vehicle's age, make, and model affect the cost because newer or more expensive cars may cost more to repair or tow. Where you live matters too — urban areas with more garages nearby may have different rates than rural regions. Your postcode is one of the first things RAC asks for.

Your claims history also influences price. If you have made several breakdown claims in the past, your renewal quote may be higher than a new customer's. Some discounts explore if you pay by direct debit, hold other RAC policies, or are a member of certain organisations like the AA or a trade union.

What is not included in standard membership

Standard RAC breakdown cover does not include damage to your vehicle caused by accidents, theft, or vandalism — that is car insurance, which you buy separately. It also does not cover breakdowns caused by running out of fuel or locking your keys in the car, though RAC does offer these as add-ons for an extra fee.

Breakdown cover does not pay for parts, labour, or repairs themselves. RAC pays to get your car to a garage, but you or your car insurance pays for the actual repair work. If you need a replacement vehicle while yours is being fixed, that is only covered if you have selected and paid for relay services.

How to compare RAC costs with other providers

The best way to understand whether RAC's price is competitive is to get quotes from other breakdown cover providers like the AA, Green Flag, or Direct Line. Enter the same vehicle details and cover level into each quote tool so the comparisons are genuine.

When comparing, check not just the annual cost but what each level of cover actually includes. A cheaper quote might exclude home start or limit relay distance. Read the small print about excess charges, excess mileage limits on towing, and whether the provider uses approved garages or lets you choose any garage.

Discounts and ways to reduce your membership cost

RAC regularly offers discounts for new members, particularly if you sign up online or through a comparison site. Bundling breakdown cover with RAC home insurance or pet insurance often reduces the total cost of both. Direct debit payments sometimes attract a small discount compared to paying by card or cheque.

Some employers, professional bodies, and trade unions have negotiated group rates with RAC, so check whether you are may be able to access through your workplace or a membership organisation. Student discount schemes and age-related discounts (for drivers over 50 or under 25) may also explore depending on current promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel RAC membership if I change my mind?

Yes, you can cancel at any time. If you cancel within 14 days of purchase, you get a full refund. After that, you can still cancel but you forfeit the unused portion of your payment unless you are within a cooling-off period set by your policy terms. Check your policy document for the exact cancellation terms.

Does RAC membership cover me if I drive someone else's car?

No, standard RAC breakdown cover is tied to your vehicle, not to you as a driver. If you drive a different car, that car would need its own breakdown cover. Some policies allow you to add occasional driving of other vehicles, but this is an add-on and costs extra.

What happens if I let my membership lapse and then have a breakdown?

If your membership has expired, RAC will not attend your breakdown for free. You would need to pay for a tow truck or mechanic out of pocket, or join RAC on the spot (though emergency joining may cost more than standard membership). It is worth renewing before your policy expires to avoid this.

Are there any hidden fees I should know about?

RAC's main costs are the membership fee itself. Some policies charge an excess if you make a claim, though many do not. If you need services beyond your cover level — like towing beyond the included distance — you pay the difference. Always read your policy schedule to see what is and is not included.

Do I need breakdown cover if I have car insurance?

Car insurance and breakdown cover are separate. Car insurance covers damage to your vehicle and liability to others. Breakdown cover pays to get your car to a garage if it stops working. You can have one without the other, though most drivers find breakdown cover worth the cost for peace of mind.